LEAven Blog

I expect that the first question that comes to mind for most people when confronted with the opportunity to attend a convention is “Why me?” Any event that takes a few days of a person’s valuable time for a purpose that may not be entirely clear is bound to meet with resistance, fear, and concern. Whether the convention is being held for political, educational, church-related, or inspirational reasons, it is important to understand WHY gathering together is central to any organization’s existence and mission. It is also critical to understand that anyone who serves in any capacity within a group, whether or not attending a convention, needs to CARE.

A prime example of a convention that is often ignored and of little interest to Lutheran educators is the triennial National Convention of the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod (LCMS), which is scheduled to be held in Phoenix this coming July 18-23, 2026. This event brings together officially elected delegates from across the LCMS to consider and vote on resolutions, gather in worship, and become exposed to the breadth of the mission and ministry taking place throughout the world by the LCMS and a variety of related agencies. With more than 1,500 people involved, the LCMS convention features many highlights that lift up the work of the Church at all levels, both domestically and internationally.

Unfortunately, there are a variety of reasons that educators in Lutheran ministries are often not excited about the fact that this convention will take place in Phoenix this July (aside from the heat!) and about district conventions that are conducted triennially:

• The work of the church-at-large is often not shared with educators serving every day in that ministry. Our focus is justifiably on our local efforts, but we are not reminded often enough that we are not alone in our mission.
• Education and church leaders face financial constraints in sending educators to conventions, as well as timing conflicts when district conventions are scheduled on school days.
• Lutheran educators often perceive that there is nothing at a district or Synodical convention that relates to them. Though much of the activity before and during the conventions relates directly to congregational ministry, education ministry and church worker support are always major areas of emphasis.
• The structure of voting at both district and Synodical conventions provides a DIS-INCENTIVE for involvement of those who are active on the Synod’s roster (those who are referenced as “commissioned ministers”). By definition in LCMS bylaws, commissioned ministers are dis-enfranchised and not allowed to be considered for voting positions, either representing their congregations at district conventions or their circuit at Synodical conventions. This has been an ongoing frustration and challenge for many decades since the beginning of the LCMS. (See other blogs related to this topic: “Voice and Vote”; “Commissioned Confusion”.)

So why should every Lutheran educator CARE about conventions held at the district and national levels?

1. Our local ministry IS part of the church-wide ministry. Decisions made at those conventions DO have an impact on what we do in our classrooms, our schools, and our communities, as well as on our personal lives (such as health insurance and retirement benefits).
2. There is so much more happening in the world with which we should be familiar. Conventions bring together people and organizations that are often seeking the involvement of our schools and workers through mission support, servant events, and educational growth.
3. Despite the limitations imposed on commissioned ministers over the years, all educators have the opportunity to voice their opinions and contribute to the debate before and during the conventions. I have discovered from attending more than 25 of these conventions over the years that speaking at a microphone, presenting to a floor committee, and writing appropriate and constructive comments to organizers DOES make a difference. Demonstrating that we DO care and have recommendations for improvement attracts attention and helps to advance mission and ministry.

Here are some specific suggestions for CARING and being involved in district and Synodical conventions (especially the one coming up in Phoenix this July):

1. PRAY for the process, the leaders, and the attendees as they seek God’s guidance in making decisions.
2. Become a delegate. If you are on the roster of Synod (commissioned minister), you are eligible to be an advisory delegate to your district convention and also to be elected as an advisory delegate from your district at a Synodical convention. If you are not on the LCMS roster and are an active member of an LCMS congregation, you are eligible to be elected as a VOTING lay delegate for future conventions!
3. Become familiar with the overtures being considered by the floor committees (meeting in May) for the upcoming Synodical convention, which will lead to the resolutions considered in July. You can follow all details about the LCMS convention at https://www.lcms.org/convention/national
4. Express your thoughts and opinions by responding to this blog, writing to your district and Synodical leaders, and discussing relevant topics with your staff.

We all have the opportunity and responsibility to care about how our Church conducts its business and supports its workers in carrying out their ministries. We can also find ways to get involved. Feel free to share your experiences and ideas with others. Let’s help to make conventions relevant and productive for Lutheran education!